Course Details

Infection: Biology, Burden, Policy

This course will examine fundamental determinants of human microbe interaction at the biological and ecological aspects. The focus will be on major global infectious diseases, their burden of illness, and policy challenges for adequate prevention and control. Each infectious agent will be discussed in terms of its mechanism of pathogenesis, disease progression, epidemiology, as well as strategies for its control. Specific emphasis will be placed on the public health aspects of each disease.

Reading/Writing assignments:
Students are expected to read 30-40 pages per week in preparation for class presentations and discussions. In addition, each student will present, once or more, a 20-minute case study (a focused examination of a specific aspect related to course materials assigned by instructors).

Requirements/Grading:
Take Home Mid term Exam - 30%
Take Home Final Exam - 40%
Oral Presentation(s) - 30%